Redfin perch in the Jordan River – baseline biological research

• Research Theme
  Fisheries & Aquaculture
• Funded By

  Inland Fisheries Service (in-kind support for fish collection)

• Principal Investigator

  IMAS student Sarah Burnes

• Contributor(s)

  Dr Peter Coulson, Dr Alyssa Marshell,  Jonah Yick (IFS)

• Project Summary

  IMAS researchers are working with the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) to better understand the life cycle of the invasive Redfin perch in the Jordan River.

  Redfin Perch (Perca fluviatilis) are a highly invasive species, which were first introduced to Tasmania in the 1860s. They are established in many waterways around the state, including rivers, lakes, and numerous dams.

  Due to their aggressive nature and ability to reproduce rapidly and overpopulate water bodies, they pose a threat to our native fish and trout.

  Previous research by IMAS Research Fellow, Dr Jaime McAllister during his 2007 Honours research demonstrated that female Redfin Perch grow to a much larger size than males and that although they can reach ages of 14 years old, the majority of the population is less than 6 years old.

  International research demonstrates that Redfin Perch are highly adaptable and that their biology from geographically close regions can vary dramatically.

  This new study, which will utilise samples collected by IFS staff from August 2023 to July 2024, will provide information on the spawning time and duration. In addition, the age and length composition and growth trends for the Jordan River population will provide the IFS with the necessary information for managing any potential new incursions of this species.

  While Redfin Perch are known to occur in some regions in Tasmania, they're not in all waterways. For this reason, it's important to report any catches or sightings of Redfin Perch if you’re unaware whether they're established in that particular location.

  Please take clear photos of the fish, or if it is dead already, collect the carcass and store it in a freezer. Please take note of the location where it was found, as well as the date, and contact the IFS promptly on 1300 INFISH or infish@ifs.tas.gov.au.

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